Flamingo Chicks take on the UN (next stop: the world!)

Only two years ago, Katherine Sparkes was starting Flamingo Chicks, an inclusive group dedicated to allowing children with disabilities and illness the opportunity to enjoy ballet classes with their friends. This year, they flew out to the United States to give a speech to the United Nations!

A group of 7 Agents of Change – some of the young people and children behind this incredible movement – gave a talk on how ‘Peace is Possible’. They got ready by turning a banister into a ballet barre and then delivered a perfect speech (scroll down to watch the speech).

The Agents of Change wowed the rather formidable crowd, rising to the challenge and delivering a word perfect speech. They even got a standing ovation at the end – quite a feat!

“I was so blown away, it was so emotional and the chicks were just so brilliant. Inspiring.” – Wayne Clark, the Global Growth Institute.

With hundreds of delegates from all over the world, Flamingo Chicks are certain that their message will help bring about change and further the movement they are so passionate about. They’ve already had requests to speak at events across the world, and they’ve even been asked to set up Flamingo Chicks workshops from Peru to Haiti!

“It was so incredible to see the Flamingo Chicks – their courage, charisma and commitment to raising awareness for children with disabilities was beautiful and inspiring.” – Anjali Singh, the United Nations Foundation.

To celebrate the triumph, the Agents of Change were whisked off to Central Park for a picnic and tuk tuk rides. They also got to go to a Beatles sing-along at Strawberry Fields and they even got to visit Times Square after dark!

“It was an honour to represent disabled kids from around the world and have the chance to tell the UN what will help make this world a better place. It made me feel really lucky. It was a good experience but I also felt moved by the experience that other disabled kids have. I hope that all disabled children get the chance to live their lives in the way they deserve.” – Frank, aged 11.

It’s been quite a summer for the Flamingo Chicks, but it looks like the future is going to be even more exciting!